Opinion
Columnist bids farewell to God
March 8, 2007
Dear God, It’s been a little while. I think the last time we talked it was about a test or a girl, or maybe winning the lottery, I’m not really sure. I’m writing today, not to ask for anything, but to say, “Thanks, it’s been real.”
I just wanted to let you know that I am prepared to renounce Christianity as my religion; I think it’s best for the both of us. I’m growing really tired of people like Brother Jed, the street preacher who graced UWRF with his presence last fall.
The springtime anti-abortion clan is constantly reminding me that I will be going to hell because I believe a woman has the right to choose when it comes to abortion. They never ask if I agree with abortion, I don’t think I could ever live with doing that to one of my offspring, but that is my choice.
Let’s not forget the Christians who think less of me because I stand up for homosexual equality. I have found I am secure enough to look past my own sexuality; I see Christians treating homosexuals much the same that Americans treated blacks in the 20th century.
I always thought this country would try to learn from its mistakes, but then again, the Bible says that all gays are going to hell. For the record, I’m not really sure where it says that in the Bible, but that is the general message I receive from such radical Christians.
Don’t get me wrong; we have had some great times together. I have learned a lot about my life, thanks to that book. The stories about the boy-turned-savior have taught me how to treat people, and how to live my life. Sometimes we need to step back and look at the big picture. What is the point of judging others on their beliefs? How much fun can someone have from hating people? I guess hating others seems like a waste of my time, and since so many of your self-righteous followers find joy in said activities, I’m starting to feel like I don’t fit in.
You have taught me to care for others, enjoy the simplest details and embrace who I am. My church has taught me about right and wrong, and they have also told me about your willingness to forgive people. You seem like a really cool guy, or perhaps a really cool girl, and these lessons that I have learned will stay with me on my travels.
When people ask me about my religion, I am more than willing to talk about my beliefs, but I am still a little embarrassed to say I am a Christian. I was thinking about becoming a Muslim, but I was told all Muslim’s are terrorists. I’m a music major; with all of my classes, rehearsals and practice time I just don’t have time to become a suicide bomber. Judaism sounds like a nice option, I mean, Jesus was a Jew after all, but I’m not sure if I could live without pork, and I’m a little worried about learning how to speak Hebrew.
I’m not really concerned with whatever title I attach to my beliefs, they’re all the same anyway. The popular organized religions focus around one central spirit and prophets. Sure Judaism says that Jesus wasn’t the Messiah, but they still recognize him as a knowledgeable guy. Muslims have Mohammed, a great prophet believed to be connected to God. Does that sound familiar?
My point is this: my life experiences have guided me along this “journey.” I have learned a lot from the stories in the Bible, and my church is a second home for me. Many Christians are too quick to judge; they are hotheaded and unwilling to change because of a book. The Bible isn’t about a bunch of words, it’s about the message inside; it’s about a way of life.
Mike Pearson is a student at UW-River Falls.